The BBC Mapping Toolkit.

A tool so flexible, so user friendly and so effective, users and developers would be lost without it.

The client

BBC Future Media and Technology (FM&T) focuses on innovative new technology formats. They aim to provide content and navigation on demand and engage in two-way communication with audiences via different devices. FM&T are concerned with the creation and development of services and applications across the BBC.

The challenge

The BBC required the development of a tool which would allow client-side developers to quickly and easily place high-quality maps onto both public-facing BBC sites and their internal intranet. They wanted to work with a company that understood the importance of producing innovative new online functionality to provide benefits for developers and users alike. It was crucial that any work done by Box UK integrated with the BBC’s existing mapping development, and reinforced the organisation’s core brand and values.

Our solution

Box UK used an Agile management approach on this project, working with the BBC’s existing maps and knowledge database to create a Mapping Toolkit that allows external developers to easily and efficiently create engaging, informative online maps. The system consists of separate modules that can be added and removed as necessary, ensuring that the toolkit is flexible enough to provide the BBC with a wealth of mapping possibilities. The toolkit also has the capacity for future growth and development, ensuring that the BBC remains at the forefront of online innovation.

The outcome

Our work to develop the Mapping Toolkit has provided the BBC with the ability to easily produce interactive online maps, with unlimited possible applications and variations. The Toolkit has received positive feedback from map producers and online users alike. In introducing the system throughout the organisation, the BBC have ensured all future maps adhere to their design guidelines, providing a unified mapping solution and a common, easy to use experience.